For grill aficionados, the longest, brightest, hottest days of summer mean only one thing: cookouts! This time-honored backyard tradition brings families, friends and neighbors together to enjoy flame-cooked barbecue delicacies such as hamburgers, hot dogs, steaks and chicken.
However, a jovial atmosphere should not prevent grill cooks from observing proper safety precautions. People who prepare their food over open flames should be aware of the potential risks and take continuous steps to avoid them.
Food Safety Considerations
Although hazards like cross-contamination and food poisoning aren’t new to outdoor cooking, the different ways people prepare food for grilling can make them forgotten. Therefore, barbecue chefs must take extra care to observe food safety measures throughout the preparation process, including:
– Shopping. When buying meat at the store, choose unbroken packages and transport them in separate bags from other foods. Make sure meat products don’t sit unrefrigerated for long periods of time, which could cause them to spoil.
– Storage. To prevent the growth of bacteria, freeze or refrigerate poultry or meat as soon as possible after purchasing. Freezers should stay at 0 degrees Fahrenheit or below, while refrigerators should stay at 40 degrees or below. Use refrigerated meats within 1 to 5 days.
– Preparation. Always grill meat and poultry thoroughly, using a meat thermometer to ensure each piece has reached the correct internal temperature. Never place cooked meat on a plate that previously held raw meat, and keep meat warm until ready to serve.
Fire Safety Precautions When Grilling
Although humans have been cooking with fire for thousands of years, modern conveniences like stoves and microwaves can lead to complacency when it comes to outdoor grilling. When a grill is used incorrectly, operators can be seriously injured. Before and during a cookout, observe methods to keep yourself and others safe, including:
– For outdoor use only. Whether charcoal or propane, grills are always unsuitable for indoor use.
– Cleaning and maintenance. Before each use, remove any grease or grease deposits from the grates and the tray below.
– Rent, rent, rent. To prevent kitchen fires from spreading to surrounding areas, place grill away from overhanging branches, eaves, deck railings, and housing structures.
– Appropriate charcoal ignition techniques. Use charcoal chimney starters, charcoal lighter fluid, and electric charcoal starters with caution and according to package directions.
– Propane ignition techniques. Propane grill owners should check gas tank hoses for leaks before first use each summer and receive professional assistance rather than operating a leaking tank.
– Pay attention. Always monitor an active grill fire to make sure it doesn’t get out of control. Users of propane grills that smell gas should immediately evacuate the area and contact the fire department.
– Parental supervision. Pets and children should be kept well away from the fire.
With the right safety precautions, home chefs and their families can enjoy delicious fire-cooked meals all summer long.
What are your secrets to a safe and tasty summer barbecue experience?